Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5 miles total
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Leader: Sami Godlove (Oregon Wild’s Central Oregon Field Coordinator)
Location: Deschutes National Forest, near Camp Sherman
Join us for a celebration of the old-growth forests that border the famous clear waters of the Metolius River! We’ll begin with a short dedication celebration with remarks by Oregon Wild and the Old-Growth Forest Network at the picnic area of the Wizard Falls Hatchery. Then we’ll hike to Canyon Creek campground for a lunch break and back.
This hike is moderate, 5 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of 150 feet and will be led by Sami Godlove of Oregon Wild and supported by Ashley Martens of the Old-Growth Forest Network.
The Metolius River is well known for its spectacularly clear, cold, and vibrant blue waters and its blue-ribbon fly fishing opportunities. Passing through ancient mixed-conifer forests and wildflower meadows, this out-and-back trail parallels the river and passes tributaries of the Metolius that are proposed to be protected in the River Democracy Act. The turnaround point is Canyon Creek Campground where the snowmelt-fed Canyon Creek–one of the tributaries proposed for protection–meets the Metolius.
The goal of Oregon Wild’s outdoor program is to connect our supporters to the places we work to protect and conserve. Our guided hikes and outings are led by staff members with experience in our conservation campaigns, knowledge about the natural world, and a passion for Oregon’s wild places and wildlife. Our programs offer an educational experience and a connection to advocacy for the places we visit. We strive to make our outdoor programs inviting and safe for everyone.
By signing up for this hike, you are agreeing to the terms of Oregon Wild’s Outdoor Activity Liability Waiver and Agreement. Review these policies here.
